For a delightfully soft and tender side dish, these Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rolls make an exceptional addition to any family dinner or holiday feast. With a slather of sweet honey butter, these rolls bring the perfect touch of comfort to your table.

• Cuisine: American
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 24 rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, fluffy texture that rivals the original.
• Made with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
• Perfect for holiday dinners or a comforting family meal.
• Easy to make by hand or with a bread machine.

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cup whole milk: Provides moisture and richness. Opt for 2% milk in a pinch.
• 2 ¼ teaspoon Active Dry Yeast (or 1 packet): Essential for leavening the dough. Instant yeast can be used as a substitute.
• ¼ cup Honey: Adds sweetness and flavor balance. Sugar can be used if needed.
• 4 tablespoons melted butter (divided): Lends richness and flavor. Margarine can be a backup option.
• 1 large egg (at room temperature): Helps bind and enrich the dough.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor profile of the rolls.
• 4 cups (480 grams) all-purpose or bread flour: The main structure of the rolls. Bread flour gives a slightly stronger chew.

How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Milk

Gently heat the milk until it nearly boils. Look for steam and small bubbles on the pan’s edge. Allow it to cool to lukewarm, around 80-90 degrees, to aid yeast activation without killing it.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, mix the lukewarm milk, yeast, and honey. Stir until combined, and let it sit for five minutes. This resting phase allows the yeast to begin feeding on the honey, stimulating activity.

Step 3: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of the melted butter with the milk-yeast mixture, egg, salt, and half of the flour. Mix slowly until smooth, using a dough hook or by hand, to ensure even incorporation before adding the remaining flour.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough for eight minutes, either in the mixer or by hand, until it feels smooth and elastic. Transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead briefly to ensure uniform texture.

Step 5: First Rise

Lightly spray a large bowl with cooking spray and place the dough inside. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 6: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the dough to release air, then roll it to ½ inch thick on a floured surface. Fold it in half, seal gently, and cut into 24 even squares. This folding step creates the classic roll layers.

Step 7: Second Rise and Bake

Place the dough squares on two lightly greased baking sheets. Cover and let them rise for 30-40 minutes until doubled. Preheat the oven to 350°F, then bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes, until they’re lightly golden on top.

Step 8: Finish with Butter

Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and brush over the hot rolls for a glossy, rich finish. Serve with your favorite honey butter.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the shaping stage and refrigerate overnight. Allow them to complete their second rise slightly longer in the morning before baking.

What if I don’t have a bread machine?

No problem! The recipe is designed to be versatile, with easy hand-kneading or mixer options available. The key is developing a smooth, elastic dough.

How should I store leftover rolls?

To maintain freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the rolls and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.